taj11

In 1631, Shah Jahan, emperor during the Mughal empire's period of greatest prosperity, was grief-stricken when his favorite of three wives and beloved companion, Mumtaz Mahal, a Persian princess, died during the birth of their 14th child, Gauhara Begum.[3] Construction of the Taj Mahal began in 1632.[4] The court chronicles of Shah Jahan's grief illustrate the love story traditionally held as an inspiration for Taj Mahal.[5][6] The principal mausoleum was completed in 1643[4] and the surrounding buildings and garden were finished about five years later.